Enhancing Image Quality in Limited-Angle CT Reconstruction for Reactor Pressure Pipelines Detection

Abstract The pressure pipelines of a nuclear reactor play a pivotal role in ensuring the structural safety of the reactor, and the accurate detection of internal and surface defects constitutes a critical step in safeguarding its integrity. Despite the remarkable performance of CT technology in detecting surface and internal defects, the inspection of reactor pressure pipelines faces significant challenges due to the limitations imposed by limited-angle CT scanning. This paper is dedicated to the investigation of limited-angle CT reconstruction algorithms, conducting an in-depth analysis of traditional iterative reconstruction algorithms such as SART and ADMM-TV. The primary objective is to enhance the image quality by addressing the artifacts caused by the limited-angle acquisition in the detection of reactor pressure pipelines. Experimental results from CT detection of reactor pressure pipelines indicate conspicuous artifacts under limited-angle conditions. Although iterative reconstruction algorithms like SART and ADMM-TV contribute to alleviating some of these artifacts, our proposed DRP reconstruction algorithm demonstrates a more pronounced improvement in reconstruction quality. Through the refinement of limited-angle CT reconstruction algorithms, this paper provides a preliminary exploration of non-destructive testing and reconstruction for reactor pressure pipelines, offering valuable insights to drive technological advancements in the field. The study aims to serve as an important reference for promoting the development of techniques in reactor pressure pipelines detection.